WALDORF, Md. — A Brandywine man was charged after Maryland State Police say he was driving under the influence while carrying a loaded handgun in Waldorf.
Toussaint Person, 54, of Brandywine, was charged with wearing, carrying or transporting a handgun while under the influence, along with multiple traffic-related offenses, according to court documents.
On March 1, 2026, at approximately 6:48 p.m., a Maryland State Police trooper was on patrol in the area of southbound U.S. 301 at Saint Patrick’s Drive in Waldorf when he observed a black Nissan Armada traveling without a functioning passenger-side brake light. The trooper conducted a traffic stop.
Upon contact, the driver was identified as Person. While speaking with him, the trooper detected a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage and observed that Person’s eyes were bloodshot and glassy. Person told the trooper he had taken the vehicle to have a broken taillight repaired, but the issue had not yet been resolved.
While awaiting backup, Person informed the trooper that he was a gun instructor and provided his Maryland handgun permit. When asked if he was carrying a firearm, Person stated that he had one in his waistband. He confirmed the firearm was loaded but said there was no round in the chamber.
A responding trooper retrieved the handgun, which was identified by the Maryland Gun Center as an IWI Masada 9S. The firearm had two magazines loaded with ammunition, and one round was found in the chamber.
After being asked to exit the vehicle, Person performed standardized field sobriety tests, during which the trooper observed signs of impairment. Person refused to submit to a preliminary breath test and was subsequently placed under arrest for DUI. He was advised of his rights but refused to submit to an intoximeter test.
Person was transported to the Maryland State Police La Plata Barrack for processing and later to the Charles County Detention Center.
He was released on his own recognizance on March 2, 2026.
A hearing is set for April 17, 2026 in Charles District Court.
Got a tip or photo? Text us at 888-871-NEWS (6397) or email news@thebaynet.com.
Join The BayNet Membership for exclusive perks and zero ads.
Don’t miss a story—sign up for our newsletter!
“Gun Instructor Charged After DUI Arrest In Waldorf”
Would it have made any difference if he was a tailor, plumber or auto mechanic? Would the news article headline read:
“Plumber Charged After DUI Arrest In Waldorf” or “Auto Mechanic Charged After DUI Arrest In Waldorf”? We doubt it.
Wow. Great way to lose your freedom and your livelihood all in one fell swoop. Definitely can’t use ignorance of the law as a defense for this one.